To Daniel or Not to Daniel?

twlaz has scored a reservation at Daniel. His hope is to “blow [his girlfiend] away when it comes to the cuisine,” but he admits that he’s on the fence about said reservation and that pricey Daniel prix fixe. “I’m also not so certain that I want to break the bank, since I doubt she would be pleased with me spending a fortune.” He helps us read between the lines: “Is it worth the price or should I be the cheap man that I have always been and look for an alternative.”

Hmm. Hounds are suggesting romantic Italian standbys like Il Buco, Lavagna, and Frankies 17, but our hound’s grandmother hails from northern Italy, so he is skeptical that they can improve upon her fare. What would you do? Would you blow the money on Daniel or patch together a few less expensive romantic restaurants?